Bringing the voices of Cumbria to the stage since 2016.
WordForWord Arts began in 2016 with a clear purpose. We wanted to bring the specific power of verbatim theatre to Carlisle and Cumbria. As a not-for-profit company, we focus entirely on highlighting the undertold stories of our region. We believe the most compelling drama comes directly from real life.
Why do we exist? Because Cumbria deserves quality arts. You need culture that speaks to your reality. We maintain low overheads to keep art accessible. We focus on the undertold narratives of the north. We listen, we record, and we perform.
We tell the story of this region through the voices of the people who live here.
Our creative process relies on the community. We record interviews with local people to build our scripts. This ensures you hear the genuine words and rhythms of Cumbrian life on stage.
We tackle difficult subjects with honesty. Our past productions documented the 2015 floods and explored the realities of invisible disabilities. We have addressed complex social issues ranging from mental health to the #MeToo movement.
We also believe in the practical application of the arts. We work extensively in schools to facilitate drama and anti-bullying workshops. These sessions help young people build emotional resilience. We collaborate with local universities and councils to ensure our work reaches the people who need it most.